Chassis no. 64026633

Model S-22. 291-cid, 200-hp hemi OHV V-8 engine, two-speed Powerflite automatic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 126-inches

DeSoto was for many years Chrysler Corporation’s “idea car,” with Miller-inspired semi-circular grilles in the early ’30s and hidden headlights for 1942. By the 1950s, though, it was a solid upper-middle-class car with hemi V-8 power. In 1955 there were two series, Firedome and Fireflite, much alike except for price.

This 1955 Firedome coupe, the entry-level series, differs from its pricier sibling mainly in trim detail. Painted in Emberglow, a coral shade, and Surf White, it is the epitome of mid-1950s color choices. It has power steering, windshield washers, heater and an AM radio with cowl antenna.

Restored by Richard Kerr, its former California owner, over a period of 25 years, it has excellent body contours and paint, and brightwork that is all very good apart from a few minor areas of pitting. The seats match the body colors, in a vinyl-and-cloth combination with black piping. The engine compartment is nicely detailed, and the undercarriage is undercoated with a gray material that is clean and presentable. It is accompanied by a substantial library of technical material, including shop manuals, parts catalogs and the like.